Isolabella gets complete refurb after hygiene problems

A popular Leyland restaurant which was slated by food hygiene inspectors is turning over a new leaf with a complete refurb of its kitchen and dining area.

Isolabella, on Hough Lane, received a lot of support online after the Guardian published a story saying that it been given the worst possible rating - no stars - in South Ribble Council’s test, set by the Food Standards Agency.

Now though, more than £50,000 has been invested in an overhaul at the eatery, which owner Ginni Maullu hopes will be the fresh start the business needs.

“The refurb was actually already planned before we had the inspection,” he said. “But we think this will really help with the hygiene issue too.

“The main problem was that we couldn’t find the records when the inspectors came. They came at a really busy time and I was in a bit of a panic.

“The result was the worst possible.”

His landlord has ploughed thousands of pounds into the restaurant, which Ginni has managed for around 10 years.

He said: “If it wasn’t for my landlord, I think I would have given up - it was like a nail in the coffin.

“But this is a fresh start. It’s my passion and I really want it to work.

“The refurbishment is fantastic, people won’t recognise the place.

“Hopefully it will make them see that the problem wasn’t about the place being dirty - you can see everything in the kitchen from the dining area.

“It’s ultra-modern now. It’s a really fresh look.”

Designer Fiona Dewhurst, from Countess Interiors, said: “It’s pretty stunning. The next step now if for them to get another hygiene inspection and improve their score.

“I think this will really help people’s perception of the business though, it’s made a massive difference.”

The restaurant was closed for a short time while the work was carried out, and re-opened this week.

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